Video endoscope with flexible tip

ABSTRACT

An endoscope system, comprises an endoscope device that includes a handle, a shaft projecting from the handle, a flexible tip coupled to a distal portion of the shaft, and a pair of pull wires extending from the handle portion through the shaft portion and coupled to the flexible tip. The handle portion includes a control wheel assembly coupled to the pair of pull wires. The handle includes a control lever coupled to the control wheel assembly. Manipulation of the control lever causes rotation of the control wheel assembly, which then causes deflection of the flexible tip via the pull wires. The control wheel assembly comprises at least two control wheels. Each of the at least two control wheels are capable of independent rotation to provide accurate tensioning of the pair of pull wires during assembly of the endoscope system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/673,268, filed May 18, 2018 the entirety of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

An endoscope refers to a medical device that allows remote examinationof the interior of a patient's body. Endoscopes may be used for avariety of diagnostic and treatment procedures relating, for example, tothe gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. To increase the ability toview particular internal structures, endoscopes having articulated tipshave been designed. However, such articulated endoscopes suffer fromproblems relating to precision and image quality.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an endoscope system consistent withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 2A is an exploded front perspective view of a single-use endoscopeconfigured in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 2B is a longitudinal cross-sectional of a handle portion of theendoscope of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the handle portion ofthe endoscope of FIG. 2A illustrating an opposite view than that shownin FIG. 2B.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional end view of the flexible tip portion ofFIG. 1 , consistent with implementations described herein;

FIGS. 3B and 3C are isometric views of distal end of the endoscope shaftof FIG. 1 in partially assembled and assembled configurations,respectively;

FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded, isometric, and partially cross-sectionalview of an interface between a proximal end of the shaft of FIG. 1 andthe right shell of FIGS. 2A-2C;

FIGS. 5A and 5B are exploded and cross-sectional detailed views of theaccess port assembly of FIG. 1 , consistent with embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 6A is an exploded detailed view of the suction valve assembly ofFIG. 1 consistent with embodiments described herein;

FIGS. 6B and 6C are cross-sectional detailed views of the suction valveassembly of FIG. 6A in closed and open states, respectively;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are detailed partially exploded and cross-sectionalviews, respectively, illustrating a portion of the right shell of FIGS.2A-2B.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are right and left side exploded isometric views,respectively, of the control wheel assembly of FIGS. 2A-2B;

FIG. 9 illustrates a simplified exemplary configuration of one or morecomponents of the laryngoscope system of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary functional block diagram of componentsimplemented in a single-use laryngoscope blade consistent withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 11 is an exemplary functional block diagram of componentsimplemented in a data cable consistent with embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 12 is an exemplary functional block diagram of componentsimplemented in a video monitor consistent with embodiments describedherein; and

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating exemplary process for capturingimages via the video laryngoscope system of FIG. 1 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings.The same reference numbers in different drawings may identify the sameor similar elements. Also, the following detailed description does notlimit the invention.

A video-based endoscope and system are described that allow forexamination of a patient's airway to facilitate placement ofendotracheal devices an endotracheal tube, etc.), delivery of medicine,etc. The system employs video endoscope embodiments that include aflexible tip that is controlled by manipulating a control lever in ahandle of the endoscope device. Consistent with implementationsdescribed herein, the video endoscope includes a number of componentsfor ensuring accurate and reproducible positioning of the flexible tip.The endoscope further includes a mechanism for engaging the outsidediameter on the proximal side of an endotracheal tube concentricallypositioned about the endoscope shaft at an initial position proximatethe endoscope handle. The endotracheal tube may then be deployed intothe patient's airway following the endoscope shaft following accurateplacement of the endoscope.

The tip further includes video capture components that capture videoand/or images and transmit the video to a remote video monitoringviewable by the user. In addition, the described video endoscope furtherincludes a working channel that facilitates application of negativepressure (suction) and/or delivery of fluid and/or other devices intothe airway.

Embodiments of the endoscope described herein include both single-use(i.e., disposable) and reusable endoscopes that include image capturingand lighting elements. During and after insertion of the endoscope intothe patient's airway, images obtained from the image capturing elementsare conveyed to a video monitor viewable by the endoscope user via adata cable.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, the endoscope, the datacable, and the remote video monitor may each include logic componentsconfigured to enable image data to be exchanged between the imagecapturing element and the video monitor in an efficient and optimizedmanner.

In exemplary embodiments, the endoscope may include logical componentsfor authenticating the endoscope with other components in the system(e.g., the video monitor and/or data cable) and logging use of theendoscope (e.g., number of times used, dates/times, etc), and fornegotiating between components in the endoscope system (e.g., betweenthe endoscope and the video monitor) to determine which component hasthe most up-to-date software, which may include optimized camerasettings and other instructions relevant to the particular endoscope(e.g., based on size, capabilities, age, etc.).

In one exemplary embodiment relating to single-use endoscopes, one ormore components of the image capturing element may be included withinthe data cable, thus rendering the remaining image capturing componentsin the endoscope less expensive, which is particularly advantageous fora single use device. In such an embodiment, the data cable may includeone or more logical components configured to identify when an endoscopehas been connected, which endoscope type/size has been connected, and tonegotiate with the endoscope and the video monitor to determine whichcomponent has a most up-to-date software, which may include optimizedcamera settings and other instructions relevant to the identifiedendoscope.

In other embodiments, such as reusable endoscopes, one or more of thelogical components of the data cable described above may be integratedwithin the endoscope and negotiation/communication may take placedirectly between the endoscope and the video monitor.

FIG. 1 illustrates a video endoscope system 100 consistent withimplementations described herein. As shown, video endoscope system 100comprises an endoscope 102, a data cable 104, and a video monitor 106.FIG. 2A is an exploded front perspective of a single-use endoscope 102configured in accordance with embodiments described herein. FIG. 2B is alongitudinal cross-sectional view of a handle portion of single-useendoscope 102. FIG. 2C is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of thehandle portion illustrating an opposite view than that shown in FIG. 2B.

As shown in FIG. 1 , endoscope 102 includes a handle 108 and a shaft110. Shaft 110 couples with and projects longitudinally from handle 108.As described in additional detail below, handle 108 may be formed of twosimilarly sized halves, referred to as a right shell 200 (interiorfeatures of which are shown in FIG. 2B) and a left shell 202 ((interiorfeatures of which are shown in FIG. 2C), which snap or otherwise connecttogether along a longitudinal center line of handle 108, as shown inFIG. 2A. When assembled, handle 108 includes, among other things, a gripportion 111, a control lever 112, a suction valve assembly 114, anaccess port assembly 116, control wheel assembly 204, and a datainterface assembly 205. Shaft 110 includes a distal end 118, anintermediate portion 120, and a proximal end 122 relative to handleportion 108. Distal end 118 includes a flexible tip 124 and proximal end122 includes a tube engagement portion 126. Consistent withimplementations described herein, dimensions of shaft 110 (e.g., length,outside diameter, and inside diameter) may vary based on an intended useof endoscope 102, such as intended procedures, patient size, etc.

During use, flexible tip 124 of endoscope 102 is introduced into thebody cavity being inspected (such as the patient's mouth). A cameramodule and light source module (described below) are provided at distalend 118 of shaft 110 so as to capture and transmit images of the distalend 118 and corresponding patient anatomy to video monitor 106 via datacable 104.

As described briefly above, in some embodiments data cable 104 mayinclude one or more components of the image capturing element, such as aserializer component. In such an embodiment, the data cable 104 mayfurther include one or more logical components configured to identifywhen an endoscope has been connected, which endoscope has beenconnected, and to negotiate with video monitor 106 to determine which ofthe data cable 104 and the video monitor 106 have the most up-to-datecamera settings for use during image capture. In such a single-useembodiment, the combination of the data cable 104 and the endoscope 102may together perform functions corresponding to a reusable endoscope.

Video monitor 106 may provide power to and initiate image capture fromendoscope 102 via data cable 104. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 ,video monitor 106 may include a display 128, and a control pad 130.Practitioners (e.g., medical personnel) may interface with video monitor106 during use to initiate image capture, freeze a particular frame, oradjust certain limited settings. Although not shown in the Figures,video monitor 106 may also include a data cable interface for receivingan end of data cable 104, a battery or other power source, and a remotemonitor interface for enabling the view of display 128 to be transmittedto one or more other display monitors.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, shaft 110 may be formed ofa number of discrete components. In particular, proximal andintermediate portions 122/120 of shaft 110 may be formed of a braided,semi-rigid polymer material having a single lumen therethrough, sized toaccommodate the internal components described below. Flexible tip 124,in contrast, may be formed of an extruded polymer material profileformed to include three distinct lumens and cut to provide single-planeflexibility.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional end view of flexible tip 124 portion ofendoscope shaft 110 consistent with implementations described herein. Asshown, flexible tip 124 includes an outer wall 300, a main lumen 302,and two pull wire lumens 304. Main lumen 302 is sized to accommodate theinternal components of shaft 110, which include a working channel 206(FIGS. 2A/2B) and any wiring necessary for the operation of cameramodule 314 (FIG. 3B) and light source module 316 (FIG. 3B). Pull wirelumens 304 are formed on opposite sides of flexible tip 124 (i.e., 180°apart) so as to form a plane of deflection and are each sized toaccommodate a respective pull wire 208/210 (FIG. 2A).

FIGS. 3B and 3C are isometric views of distal end 118 of endoscope shaft110 in partially assembled and assembled configurations, respectively.As shown, distal end 118 includes flexible tip 124, an image capturingsub-assembly 306, and coupling rings 308.

In addition to lumens 302/304 described above, flexible tip 124 furtherincludes a pair of opposing (i.e., 180° apart) longitudinally spacedwebs 310. In addition to being positioned 180° relative to each other,each web 310 is further positioned 90° relative to its respective pullwire lumen 304. The above-described relationship between webs 310 andpull wire lumens 304 allows for symmetric in-plane bi-directionalarticulation.

Consistent with embodiments described herein webs 310 are formed bylaser cutting the extruded polymer material of flexible tip 124.However, given that flexible tip 124 is such a small thin-walled polymerpart, a traditional laser cutting system is not capable of cutting sucha part without melting the polymer. Accordingly, webs 310 are formed byusing an ultrashort, pulse laser system.

By forming flexible tip 124 in the manner described above (e.g., polymerextruded profile with subsequent laser cut webs), tip 124 may beproduced with drastically lower manufacturing costs than that availableusing other manufacturing techniques, which is particularly advantageouswhen producing single-use (i.e., disposable) devices. In addition, suchmanufacturing techniques allow for use of a larger range of polymermaterial families and grades in contrast to other manufacturing methods.

Image capturing sub-assembly 306 includes a housing 312, camera module314, and light source module 316. Housing 312 may include a length ofsubstantially cylindrical polymeric material that includes a pluralityof apertures therein for receiving camera module 312, light sourcemodule 316 and working channel 206. In one implementation, an outsidediameter of housing 312 may be sized to fit within an inside diameter ofa distal coupling ring 308. Furthermore, during assembly of endoscope102, housing 312 may be secured, e.g., via adhesive (e.g., Loctite®,etc.) to the distal coupling ring 308. Consistent with embodimentsdescribed herein, the components of image capturing sub-assembly 306 maybe potted with a curable adhesive, such as an ultraviolet light curableadhesive, after assembly.

In some embodiments, each of housing 312 and coupling rings 308 may bekeyed, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, to prevent twisting of housing 312relative to coupling ring 308 during assembly. Furthermore, in someimplementations, camera module 314 and light source module 316 may beformed as part of a circuit board assembly, such as a printed circuitboard assembly (PCBA), flexible printed circuit board assembly (FPCBA),or rigid flexible printed circuit board assembly (RFPCBA) (not shown).In one implementations, the PCBA (or FPCBA/RFPCBA) may be configured tocouple camera module 114 and light source module 116 to data interfaceassembly 205 via electrical wires 214 (FIG. 2B) that extend the lengthof endoscope 102. In alternative embodiments, camera module 314 andlight source module 316 may be coupled directly to wires 214 and may notbe integrated with or coupled to a PCBA. In yet another implementation(not shown), camera module 314 may be integrated within or provided asan additional long flexible PCBA that extends directly from the cameramodule 314 to data interface assembly 205, without the need for discreteelectrical wires. Such an implementation may exhibit additionalresistance to damage during use.

As shown in FIG. 3C, image capturing sub-assembly 306, flexible tip 124,and coupling rings 308 are encased by an outer sheath 318. Consistentwith embodiments described herein, outer sheath 318 is formed of a heatshrinkable, flexible material that, when cured, flexibly seals webs 310and couplings 308 and bonds to shaft 110.

Turning now to handle 108 and proximal end 122 of shaft 110, FIG. 4illustrates an exploded, isometric, and partially cross-sectional viewof an interface between proximal end 122 of shaft 110 and right shell200 of handle 108. As shown, proximal end 122 of shaft 110 includes tubeengagement portion 126 and handle interface portion 400. Consistent withimplementations described herein, tube engagement portion 126 includesan arrangement of a generally concentric first inner tube 402 and asecond outer tube 404 joined at a portion (not shown) proximal to handle108. Outer tube 404 is sized to receive and engage a device tube, suchas an ET tube, for subsequent deployment into the patient's body.Accordingly, tube engagement portion 126 may include different sizes orcombinations of sizes (e.g., inside and outside diameters) of each tube402/404 consistent with a device tube to be deployed.

Regardless of size or relative size, in each embodiment of tubeengagement portion 126, inner tube 402 includes a central aperture 402formed therethrough sized to receive proximal end 122 of shaft 110.During assembly of endoscope 102, proximal end 122 may be secured, e.g.,via adhesive, overmolded, interference fit, etc. to tube engagementportion 126. Outer tube 404 may be sized to receive an outside surfaceof the device tube. As described herein, the outside diameter of innertube 402 is sized smaller than the inner surface of a suitable devicetube, so that only outer tube 404 engages the device tube.

In some implementations, inner surface of outer tube 404 may includeengagement features, such as ribs, detents, bumps, etc. (not shown inFIG. 4 ) to aid in releasably engaging an outer diameter of a devicetube. Furthermore, in some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , forwardedges of inner tube 402 and/or outer tube 404 may be chamfered so as tomore easily receive a device tube slide along shaft 110. Consistent withembodiments described herein, all or some of tube engagement portion 126may be formed of a resilient or semi-rigid material, such as a polymeror rubber, suitable for frictionally engaging a device tube andretaining the tube in an engagement position during initial use ofendoscope 102 (e.g., insertion into a patient cavity).

As shown in FIG. 4 , handle interface portion 400 is configured topositively engage corresponding portions of handle 108 to restrict orprevent rotation of shaft 110 relative to handle 108 upon assembly. Forexample, as shown, handle interface portion 400 may include neck portion406 and flat-sided collar portion 408 for engaging a correspondingcollar portion 410 and collar cavity 412 of right shell 200 and leftshell 202 (as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C). Furthermore, handle interfaceportion 400 may further include a tubular shaft entry portion 414 thatincludes a central aperture therethrough (not directly shown in theFigures) that is aligned with central aperture 402 of inner tube 402.The central aperture in tubular shaft entry portion 414 may be sizedsimilarly to the opening through proximal end 122 of shaft 110, so thatcomponents (e.g., pull wires 208/210, electrical wires 214, and workingchannel 206) introduced through tubular shaft entry portion 414 mayeasily pass into shaft 110, or vice-versa. During assembly, handleinterface portion 400 may be seated within right shell 200 and clampedbetween right shell 200 and left shell 202.

Returning to FIGS. 2A-2C, right shell 200 and left shell 202 of handle108 each includes an outer surface 216 that include respective peripheryportions 218/220. As shown, outer surface 216 is generally ergonomicallyshaped to be easily gripped within a user's hand. In someimplementations, outer surfaces 216 of respective shells 200/202 mayform substantially mirror images of each other, although in otherimplementations, outer surfaces 216 may vary so as to form right handedor left handed versions. Respective periphery portions 218/220 of shells200/202 are configured to align during assembly to form an inner cavity222 between the right shell 200 and the left shell 202. As shown inFIGS. 2A-2C, when right and left shells 200/202 of handle 108 arejoined, external openings are provided for receiving shaft 110, controllever 112, suction valve assembly 114, access portion assembly 116, anddata interface assembly 205, as described in additional detail below,where appropriate. In some embodiments, shells 200/202 may be formed ofa plastic or other rigid material via, for example, injection molding,3D printing, vacuum molding, etc.

As described below, inner cavity 222 may receive portions of suctionvalve assembly 114, access port assembly 116, control wheel assembly204, working channel 206, and pull wires 208/210. Consistent withimplementations described herein, shells 200 and 202 may be securedtogether via a plurality of clips spaced about periphery portions218/220, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C. In other embodiments, shells200/202 may be secured in other ways, such as via adhesives, welding,straps, screws, etc.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, access port assembly 116 is configured forinsertion between right shell 200 and left shell 202 during assembly andoperatively couples an external device, such as a medication drip,surgical instrument, etc, to working channel 206. Consistent withembodiments described herein, working channel 206 may include an innerand outer layer of polymer material with a polymer or metal coil layerprovided therebetween in a generally helical or braided geometry. Such aconfiguration prevents working channel 206 from kinking duringarticulation and further prevents working channel 206 from collapsingwhen vacuum is applied (as described below).

FIGS. 5A and 5B are exploded and cross-sectional detailed views ofaccess port assembly 116 consistent with embodiments described herein.As shown in FIG. 5A, access port assembly 116 includes a housing 500, atube fitting portion 502, and seal portions 504 and 506. Housing 500 isa generally tubular structure formed of a rigid or semi-rigid materialand includes engagement features that correspond to engagementstructures provided in right and left shells 200/202. For example, asshown in FIG. 2B, housing 500 includes a peripheral channel configuredto engage generally u-shaped projections in right and left shells200/202.

Tube fitting portion 502 includes a substantially hollow structureformed of a rigid or semi-rigid material (e.g., a plastic). As shown,tube fitting portion 502 includes a first inlet 508, a second inlet 510,and an outlet 512. First inlet 508 is aligned with and sized for receiptwithin housing 500 during assembly. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2B,first inlet 508 is configured to provide external access to workingchannel 206 via housing 506 and seals 502/504. Second inlet 510 isconfigured to receive an internal suction connector 224 (FIGS. 2A and2B) that is coupled to section assembly 116, which is described indetail below in relation to FIGS. 6A and 6B. Outlet 512 is oriented andsized to receive a proximal end of working channel 206.

Seal portions 502/504 are formed of a resilient material and includerespective apertures aligned with first inlet 508 and housing 500. Thesize of the respective apertures is consistent with the potential usesfor access port assembly, such as corresponding to particular sizes ofmedical tubing, instrument diameters, etc. Seal 502 is normally closed,and therefore allows for suction functionality as described below tooccur entirely from the distal end of the working channel 206. Seal 504provides an airtight seal with accessories such as a luer lock connector(e.g., syringe) or similar when used in the access port assembly 116,while seal 502 is opened by such accessories to gain access to workingchannel 206. This functionality, for example, enables connecting asyringe into the access port assembly 116 so that fluids can beadministered into the working channel 206 without leakage.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, suction valve assembly 114 is alsoconfigured for insertion between right shell 200 and left shell 202during assembly and operatively couples an external source of suction toworking channel 206 via suction connector 224 and tube fitting 502described above. FIG. 6A is an exploded detailed view of suction valveassembly 114 consistent with embodiments described herein. FIGS. 6B and6C are cross-sectional detailed views of suction valve assembly 114 inclosed and open states, respectively. As shown in FIG. 6A, suction valveassembly 114 includes a housing 600, bottom cover 602, plunger 604,O-ring seal 606, spring 608, washer seal 610, and valve button 612.

Housing 600 is a generally tubular structure formed of a rigid orsemi-rigid material and includes engagement features that correspond toengagement structures provided in right and left shells 200/202. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 2A, housing 600 includes a peripheral channelin an intermediate portion thereof configured to engage a generallyu-shaped projection in right and left shells 200/202. During assembly,suction valve assembly 114 is placed between right and left shells200/202.

As shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, housing 600 further includes an upperchamber 614, a lower chamber 616, an upper aperture 618, a centralaperture 620, a lower aperture 622, an outlet 624, and an inlet 626.Outlet 624 is fluidly coupled with upper chamber 614, while inlet 626 isfluidly coupled with lower chamber 616. Upper and lower chambers 614/616are fluidly coupled by central aperture 620, which is sized to allowplunger 604 to move therethrough, as described below. Outlet 624 isconfigured to project outwardly from housing 600 adjacent upper chamber614 to receive a source of negative pressure (suction). As shown in FIG.6A, an outer surface of outlet 624 may include a plurality of ribs orbarbs 628 for engaging and sealing with a suction tube that is pushedthereon. Inlet 626 is configured project outwardly from housing 600adjacent lower chamber 616 and sized to receive a proximal end ofsuction connector 224 therein, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B.

Bottom cover 602 is configured to be received within and enclose lowerchamber 616 and includes a central cavity 630 therein for receiving alower portion of plunger 604 during actuation of valve 114. Furthermore,as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, bottom cover 602 further includes a grooveor channel 632 for receiving O-ring seal 606, which prevents suctionfrom affecting other components in the interior of handle 108.

Plunger 604 is a movable, elongated structure configured to extendthrough upper and lower chambers 614/616 and pass through centralaperture 620. As shown in FIG. 6A, plunger includes a series of channels634 formed in an outer periphery thereof which allow air to passefficiently around plunger 604 when valve 114 is actuated. Plunger 604further includes a shoulder portion 636 for engaging washer seal 610 onan upper surface thereto to prevent suction from reaching lower chamber616 when valve is in the normally closed state (FIG. 6B). Spring 608 ispositioned between a lower surface of shoulder portion 636 and bottomcover 602 and is configured to bias plunger 604 into the closed state.

Valve button 612 engages an upper end of plunger 604 and includes alower portion that is received within upper aperture 618. When in theclosed state (FIG. 6B), a space or gap 636 formed between valve button612 and housing 600 allows any suction from outlet 624 to be appliedoutside of endoscope 102 via upper chamber 614 and upper aperture 618,while washer seal 610 prevents the suction from being applied to lowerchamber 616 and inlet 626. Conversely, when valve button 612 isdepressed, plunger 604 moves downwardly with respect to housing 600,thereby moving washer seal 610 away from central aperture 620, andthereby allowing negative pressure to be applied to lower chamber 616and inlet 626. Release of valve button 612 causes plunger 604 to returnto the closed position by virtue of spring 608. Consistent withembodiments described herein, valve button 612 includes a lower portionand an upper portion 640 and an upper portion 642 that extends radiallyoutwardly with respect to lower portion 640. As shown in FIG. 6C, abottom surface of upper portion 642 is configured to seal upper aperture618 when valve assembly 114 is in the closed state.

To control the articulation of flexible tip 124, pull wires 208 extendthrough shaft 120 proximal and intermediate portions 122/120 of shaft110 and couple to control wheel assembly 204. More particularly, in oneimplementation, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, proximal ends of pull wires208 and 210 are secured to termination elements 209 and 211,respectively. As described more fully below, termination elements 209and 211 may include generally cylindrical or disc-shaped elementsconfigured to be received and retained within control wheel assembly204. Termination elements 209 and 211 may be formed of any suitablematerial, such as plastic, a metal, etc. and may be secured to pullwires 208 and 210 in any suitable manner, such as via welding, anadhesive, soldering, brazing, crimping, etc. Furthermore, although notdepicted in the Figures, distal ends of pull wires 208/210 may besecured within distal ends of pull wire lumens 304. As described herein,by enabling accurate tensioning of pull wires 208/210 during assembly,positional accuracy of each pull wire termination element 209/211 on itsrespective pull wire 208/210 is irrelevant, since manufacturingtolerance variation can be accounted for independently duringtensioning.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are detailed partially exploded and cross-sectionalviews, respectively, illustrating a portion of right shell 200. Asshown, right shell 200 is provided with a coil stop receptacle 700positioned generally along a center line of right shell 200 (e.g.,aligned with the central aperture of tubular shaft entry portion 414)and sized to securely receive a coil stop 702. In some embodiments, coilstop receptacle 700 is formed integrally with right shell 200, while inother embodiments, coil stop receptacle 700 is formed separately and issecured to right shell 200 during assembly or manufacture, such as viaadhesive, welding, screws, etc.

Coil stop 702 is formed of a resilient or semi-rigid material and issized to fit within coil stop receptacle 700 and be retained therein viaa friction fit. As shown in FIG. 7A, coil stop 702 includes a pair ofslots 704 formed in a top surface thereof for receiving pull wires208/210. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, consistent with embodimentsdescribed herein, each pull wire 208/210 includes a Bowden-style cablehaving an inner wire 706 an outer compression coil (which is anincompressible spring) 708. Compression coil 708 extends between coilstop 702 and flexible tip 124, while inner wire 706 extends betweencontrol wheel assembly 204 and flexible tip 124 distal end. A distal endof inner wire 706 extends through pull wire lumens 304 in flexible tip124 and may be secured within the distal end of wire lumens 304, asdescribed above. For example, distal ends of control wires 208/210secured to the distal ends of their respective lumens 304 using acombination of flaring and adhesive, or other means of fixation.

During operation, when pull wires 208/210 are actuated either forward orbackward, corresponding pull wire tension increases to enablearticulation and a resultant compressive force must be transferred backto handle 108. This force transfer is accomplished by compression coil708 taking the load and transferring back to the handle via coil stop702. Without compression coil 708, the load would travel thruintermediate and proximal portions 120/122 of shaft 110 and may resultin shaft 110 moving in an uncontrolled and or undesirable manner whentip 124 is articulated.

As shown in FIG. 7A, upon assembly, compression coils 708 are secured,e.g., via a stepped configuration, within coil stop slots 704,effectively fixing compression coils 708 to handle 108 and allowinginner wires 706 to slide therethrough. In one implementation, slots 704may be shaped to include a cylindrical bottom portion sized commensuratewith a diameter of compression coils 708 and having a narrower upperportion. Such a configuration retains compression coils 708 within slots704 even when handle 108 is inverted or otherwise manipulated. Inaddition, this configuration prevents compression coils 708 do nottravel toward control wheel assembly 204 during use.

Turning now to control wheel assembly 204, FIGS. 8A and 8B are right andleft side exploded isometric views, respectively, of control wheelassembly 204 and control lever 112. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, controlwheels assembly 204 includes a first control wheel 800, a second controlwheel 802, and a third control wheel 804 aligned concentrically toenable accurate neutral tension in pull wires 208/210 during assembly ofendoscope 102, as described in detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, in association with control wheel assembly204, right shell 200 includes a main control wheel boss 226, atensioning pin boss 228, a pair of routing posts 230, and a set ofrouting vanes 232. It should be noted that features described herein asrelating to right shell 200 may, in some embodiments, be implemented, inwhole or in part, in left shell 202. Similarly, the arrangement ofcontrol wheels 800/804 may be similarly reversed.

Main control wheel boss 226 is a tubular body that projects inwardlyfrom right shell 200 and receives a corresponding central shaft 808 offirst control wheel 800 therein, such that first control wheel 800, whenassembled, rotates within main control wheel boss 226. As shown in FIG.2A, main control wheel boss 226 may be formed integrally with rightshell 200. Similar to main control wheel boss 226, tensioning pin boss228 is a cylindrical body that also projects inwardly from right shell200 in a spaced relationship to main control wheel boss 226. Asdescribed below, tensioning pin boss 228 is configured to receive,during assembly of endoscope 302, a tensioning pin 229 (shown in dashedoutline in FIG. 2A) that engages a serrated outer periphery of firstcontrol wheel 800 to prevent first control wheel 800 from freelyrotating about main control wheel boss 226 during assembly andtensioning of pull wires 208 and/or 210.

Routing posts 230 project inwardly from right shell 200 in a spacedrelationship about a longitudinal axis of right shell 200 and include anarcuate configuration for guiding pull wires 208/210 and preventingunnecessary wear or binding. Routing vanes 232 likewise project inwardlyfrom right shell 200 and, in one exemplary embodiment, include a set ofthree longitudinal vanes 232 a, 232 b, and 232 c that together form twosubstantially v-shaped slots 234 a and 234 b. As best shown in FIG. 2A,during assembly, when pull wires 208 and 210 are positioned within rightshell 200, pull wire 208 is placed within v-shaped slot 234 a and pullwire 210 is placed within v-shaped slot 234 b. Pull wires 208 and 210are then routed around the arcuate shape of routing posts 230 such thatpull wire 208 is positioned to one side of main control wheel boss 226(e.g., an upper side relative to the orientation of FIG. 2B) and pullwire 210 is positioned to the opposite side of main control wheel boss226 (e.g., a lower side relative to the orientation of FIG. 2B). Asdescribed below, first control wheel 800 and third control wheel 804 areconfigured to receive respective pull wires 208/210 along outerperipheries thereof, respectively, as described in additional detailbelow.

As shown in FIG. 2C, left shell 202 includes a secondary control wheelboss 227. Secondary control wheel boss 227 is a tubular body thatprojects inwardly from left shell 202 and receives a correspondingcentral shaft of third control wheel 804 thereon, such that thirdcontrol wheel 804, when assembled, rotates around secondary controlwheel boss 227. Additionally, as described below, secondary controlwheel boss 227 further includes an inside aperture for receiving acentral shaft of first control wheel 200. As shown in FIG. 2C, secondarycontrol wheel boss 227 may be formed integrally with left shell 202.

As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, first control wheel 800 comprises agenerally cylindrical body 806 including first central shaft 808, acentral flange region 810, and a second central shaft 812. As brieflydescribed above, first central shaft 808 is sized for receipt withinmain control wheel boss 226. Central flange region 810 projects radiallyoutwardly from first central shaft 808 and includes a planar outersurface 811 that slidingly engages main control wheel boss 266. Centralflange region 810 further includes an outer periphery that includes aplurality of teeth or serrations 814. As briefly described above,serrations 814 are configured to engage tensioning pin boss 228 duringassembly to prevent free rotation of first control wheel 800 relative tomain control wheel boss 226/right shell 200. In addition to serrations814, the outer periphery of central flange region 810 also includes anannular groove 816 and a wire fixing aperture 818. Annular groove 816 isconfigured to receive one of pull wires 208/210 (shown as control wire208 in FIG. 2A) and wire fixing aperture 818 is configured to receiveone of pull wire termination elements 209/211 (shown as terminationelement 209 in FIG. 2A).

During assembly, after first central shaft 808 is placed within maincontrol wheel boss 226, pull wire termination element 209 may beinitially inserted into wire fixing aperture 818. As shown in FIG. 8B,wire fixing aperture 818 may include a wire entry slot to facilitateentry of termination element 209 and pull wire 208 into wire fixingaperture 818. Once termination element 209 is seated within wire fixingaperture 818, first control wheel 800 may be rotated (e.g., clockwiserelative to right shell 200) to route pull wire 208 into annular groove816. As described above, the free rotation of first control wheel 800 isrestrained by engagement of serrations 814 with tensioning pin boss 228.In some implementations, such rotation is performed by hand duringassembly. However, in other implementations, an automated orcomputer-controlled device may be used to rotate control wheel and tointroduce a proper and uniform tension to pull wire 208 by means ofangular tip measurements, tension measurement, or torque measurement.

As shown in FIG. 8B, an inner surface 813 of central flange region 810includes a generally cylindrical multi-purpose engagement ring 820 thatprojects inwardly therefrom. Each of the radial inward surface 822 andthe radial outward surface 824 of engagement ring 820 of comprisetoothed or notched configurations for engaging, respective portions ofsecond control wheel 802 and third control wheel 804. The size/pitch ofthe teeth/notched features on inward surface 822 and outward surface 824dictate how accurately tensioning can be achieved. That is, moreaccurate precision may be achieved with finer gear teeth. However, thisprecision is balanced against the need to withstand appropriate loadduring articulation. As best shown in FIG. 8B, inner surface 813 ofcentral flange region 810 may include indicia (e.g., arrows) 826 forindicating a direction that an assembler should rotate first controlwheel 800 to achieve proper tensioning of pull wire 208.

Second central shaft 812 of first control wheel 800 projects inwardlyfrom central flange region 810 concentrically with first central shaft808. As shown in FIG. 2A and described in additional detail below,second central shaft 812 is configured to receive a central aperture inthird control wheel 804 to affect concentric alignment of third controlwheel 804 with first control wheel 800 (and second control wheel 804).

As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, second control wheel 802 comprises agenerally tubular body member 828 having a central aperture 830 providedtherethrough. Consistent with embodiments described herein, centralaperture 830 may be provided with a toothed or notched inner surface 831configured to matingly engage radial outward surface 824 ofmulti-purpose engagement ring 820. Upon assembly, rotational movement ofsecond control wheel 802 (e.g., caused by movement of control lever 112)causes first control wheel to rotate, thus causing control wire 208 tomove longitudinally within handle 108 and shaft 110, and affecting acorresponding deflection of tip 124, as described above.

Second control wheel 802 further includes a control lever engagementportion 832. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, control lever engagementportion 832 projects radially from second control wheel 802. Uponassembly, control lever engagement potion 832 is configured to extend atleast partially outside of handle 108, via control lever opening 236 (asshown in FIGS. 2A-2C). In some embodiments, control lever engagementportion 832 includes a resilient clip or hook portion 834 for engaging acorresponding clip portion in control lever 112 (described below). Inaddition, consistent with embodiments described herein, second controlwheel 802 may include an arcuate member 836 configured to project from aportion of body member 828 that functions to prevent or minimize theentry of foreign materials into inner cavity 222 via control leveropening 236. The inner side of arcuate member 836 also mates with/coversboth annular grooves 816/854 when fully assembled together, whichprevents pull wires 208/210 from falling out of grooves 816/854 whenrespective pull wires 208/210 are not in tension. As shown, arcuatemember 836 includes a generally tubular configuration that is positionedradially between the control lever engagement portion 832 and the bodymember 828 and that has a width that is wider than control lever opening236.

As shown in FIG. 8B, control lever 112 may include a generally T-shapedbody 838 configured for easy forward/backward manipulation by a user'sthumb during operation of endoscope 102. In some embodiments, T-shapedbody 838 includes a curved lateral profile that generally mirrors anouter configuration of handle 108. Such a feature minimizes thelikelihood that control lever 112 will get caught up on variousenvironmental elements, such as clothing, equipment, wires/cables, etc.An outer surface of control lever 112, may include a friction surface,such as ribbed, grooved, or knurled surface. Such a configuration educesthe likelihood that a user's thumb will slip off of control lever 112during use.

Although a T-shaped body is shown in the figures, in other embodiments,additional or alternative configurations may be used, such as agenerally cylindrical or bulbous knob. As described above, control lever112 includes a clip portion 840 configured to enable removable couplingof control lever 112 with control lever engagement portion 832.

As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, third control wheel 804 comprises agenerally cylindrical body 842 including an engagement ring portion 844,a central flange region 846, and a central shaft 848. As shown in FIG.8A, cylindrical body 842 includes a central aperture 850 providedtherethrough. As briefly described above, central aperture 850 in body842 is configured to concentrically receive an end of second centralshaft 812 of first control wheel 800 during assembly. Engagement ringportion 844 of third control wheel 804 projects axially inwardly fromthe body 842 and includes a radially outward surface 852 that includes atoothed or notched configuration for engaging radially inward surface822 of engagement ring 820 of first control wheel 800. This matingnotched relationship causes third control wheel 804 to rotate inresponse to movement of control lever 112.

Central flange region 846 of third control wheel 804 projects radiallyoutwardly from body 842 and includes a planar, axially inward surfacefor engaging a corresponding portion of second control wheel 802.Central flange region 846 further includes an outer periphery thatincludes an annular groove 854 and a wire fixing aperture 856. Similarto annular groove 816 in first control wheel 800 described above,annular groove 854 is configured to receive one of pull wires 208/210(shown as control wire 210 in FIG. 2A) and wire fixing aperture 856 isconfigured to receive one of pull wire termination elements 209/211(shown as termination element 211 in FIG. 2A).

During assembly, pull wire termination element 211 may be initiallyinserted into wire fixing aperture 856. As shown in FIG. 8B, wire fixingaperture 856 may include a wire entry slot to facilitate entry ofterminal element 211 and pull wire 210 into wire fixing aperture 856.Once terminal element 211 is seated within wire fixing aperture 856,central aperture 850 may be placed loosely onto second central shaft 812of first control wheel 800, in a spaced relationship relative toengagement ring 820 of first control wheel 800. Once termination element211 is seated within wire fixing aperture 856, and third control wheel804 is placed loosely onto first control wheel 800, third control wheel804 may be rotated (e.g., counter-clockwise relative to right shell 200)to route pull wire 210 into annular groove 854, the rotation occursabout second central shaft 812 of first control wheel 800 and centralaperture 850 of third control wheel 804. After appropriate tension hasbeen applied to pull wire 210 to render articulating tip 124 initiallyat a neutral position (i.e., no longitudinal deflection), third controlwheel 804 may be fully seated on first control wheel 800, such thatoutward surface 852 of engagement ring 850 positively mates withradially inward surface 822 of engagement ring 820 of first controlwheel 800, thereby locking the first, second and third control wheels800-804 together. In this configuration, second central shaft 812 offirst control wheel 800 projects through central aperture 850 in thirdcontrol wheel body 842 and extends concentrically within second centralshaft 812 of third control wheel 804.

Second central shaft 812 of first control wheel 800 projects inwardlyfrom central flange region 810 concentrically with first central shaft808. As shown in FIG. 2A and described in additional detail below,second central shaft 812 is configured to receive a central aperture inthird control wheel 804 to affect concentric alignment of third controlwheel 804 with first control wheel 800 (and second control wheel 804).

As shown in FIG. 8B, central shaft 848 of third control wheel 804includes a generally tubular configuration having an inside surface 856therein. As described above, during assembly, second central shaft 812projects into central shaft 848. The relationship between inside surface856 of central shaft 848 and the outside surface of second central shaft812 of first control wheel 800 is configured to receive secondarycontrol wheel boss 227 therebetween, upon assembly of left shell 202 toright shell 200.

In some alternative implementations, less than three control wheels maybe used. For example, the features and functions provided by secondcontrol wheel 802 (e.g., an attachment mechanism for control lever 112,etc.) may be integrated into one or more of control wheels 800/804. Inthis manner, independent tensioning of control wheels 800/804 may bemaintained.

By providing for independent and secure tensioning of each pull wire208/210 independently, during assembly, fine, smooth articulationcontrol may be realized, without the inherent slack or “play” providedby known control mechanisms. Furthermore, as described above, assemblyof endoscope may be performed without the need for special equipment ortools.

Although manual tensioning and articulation is generally described aboveand illustrated in the Figures, in other implementations, control wheelassembly 204 may include or support electrical tensioning and/orcontrol. For example, a small electric motor (e.g., a servo motor) couldbe implemented to engage toothed outward surface 824 of engagement ring820. Alternative, the electric motor may be configured to engage firstcentral shaft 808. In such an implementation, the motor may be mountedto right shell 200 adjacent to or in lieu of main control wheel boss226. Control of such a motor could be performed using one or moreswitches or actuators mounted on device handle 108.

As briefly described above, in some implementations, endoscope 102 maybe a single use or disposable device. As such, it may be beneficial tosimplify the components of endoscope 102 to reduce the cost of thedevice. In particular, consistent with embodiments described herein,endoscope system 100 may include alternative processing capabilitiesthat decrease the cost and complexity of the disposable portion, e.g.,endoscope 102.

FIG. 9 illustrates a simplified exemplary configuration of one or morecomponents 900 of endoscope system 100, such as endoscope 102, datacable 104, and video monitor 106. Referring to FIG. 9 , component 900may include bus 910, a processing unit 920, a memory 930, an inputdevice 940, an output device 950, and a communication interface 960. Bus910 may include a path that permits communication among the components900 of endoscope system 100. In one exemplary implementation, bus 910may include an I²C bus which supports a master/slave relationshipbetween components 900. As described below, in exemplaryimplementations, the master and slave roles may be negotiated betweenthe components, or alternatively, between multi-use devices, such asdata cable 104 and video monitor 106.

Processing unit 920 may include one or more processors, microprocessors,or processing logic that may interpret and execute instructions. Memory990 may include a random access memory (RAM) or another type of dynamicstorage device that may store information and instructions for executionby processing unit 920. Memory 990 may also include a read only memory(ROM) device (e.g., an electrically erasable and programmable ROM(EEPROM)) or another type of static storage device that may store staticinformation and instructions for use by processing unit 920. In otherembodiments, memory 990 may further include a solid state drive (SSD).

Input device 940 may include a mechanism that permits a user to inputinformation to endoscope system 100, such as a keyboard, a keypad, amouse, a pen, a microphone, a touch screen, voice recognition and/orbiometric mechanisms, etc. Output device 950 may include a mechanismthat outputs information to the user, including a display (e.g., aliquid crystal display (LCD)), a data interface assembly (e.g., port), aprinter, a speaker, etc. In some implementations, a touch screen displaymay act as both an input device and an output device. In the endoscopesystem 100 depicted in FIG. 1 , only video monitor 106 may be providedwith input device 940 and output device 950, however in otherimplementations, one or more other components of endoscope system 100may include such devices. As depicted in FIG. 1 , endoscope 102 and datacable 104 may be implemented as headless devices that are not directlyprovided with input device 940 or output device 950 and may receivecommands from, for example, video monitor 106.

Communication interface 960 may include one or more transceivers thatendoscope system 100 (e.g., video monitor 106) uses to communicate withother devices via wired, wireless or optical mechanisms. For example,communication interface 960 may include a modern or an Ethernetinterface to a local area network (LAN) or other mechanisms forcommunicating with elements in a communication network (not shown inFIG. 1 ). In other embodiments, communication interface 960 may includeone or more radio frequency (RF) transmitters, receivers and/ortransceivers and one or more antennas for transmitting and receiving RFdata via a communication network, such as a wireless LAN or network.

The exemplary configuration illustrated in FIG. 9 is provided forsimplicity. It should be understood that endoscope system 100 mayinclude more or fewer components than illustrated in FIG. 9 . In anexemplary implementation, endoscope system 100 performs operations inresponse to one or more processing units 920 executing sequences ofinstructions contained in a computer-readable medium, such as memory990. A computer-readable medium may be defined as a physical or logicalmemory device. The software instructions may be read into memory 990from another computer-readable medium (e.g., a hard disk drive (HDD),SSD, etc.), or from another device via communication interface 960.Alternatively, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or incombination with software instructions to implement processes consistentwith the implementations described herein. Thus, implementationsdescribed herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardwarecircuitry and software.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary functional block diagram of componentsimplemented in a single-use endoscope 102 in accordance with anembodiment described herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 10 , all or someof the components may be implemented by processing unit 920 executingsoftware instructions stored in memory 990.

As shown, endoscope 102 may include identification and authenticationlogic 1005, version checking logic 1010, settings storage 1015, datalogger 1020, light source logic 1025, image capture logic 1030, andimage output logic 1035.

Identification and authentication logic 1005 is configured to, uponpower up of endoscope 102, exchange identification and authenticationinformation with data cable 104 and/or video monitor 106. For example,endoscope 102 may communicate identification information to data cable104 via bus 910 (e.g., the I²C bus). In one embodiment, theidentification information may comprise information relating to the typeof endoscope 102, such as the size, application, model, particular videoformat, etc. In other implementations, the identification informationmay include information specific to the particular endoscope 102, suchas serial number or other uniquely identifying information.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, identification andauthentication logic 1005 may provide the identifying information todata cable 104 and video monitor 106 for use in determining whetherendoscope 102 is authorized for use with the data cable 104 and videomonitor 106. For example, as described below, upon receipt of theidentification information from endoscope 102, the data cable 104 and/orvideo monitor 106 may determine whether the endoscope 102 is authorizedfor use. In this manner, unauthorized, third party endoscopes may bemonitored, logged, or potentially disallowed by the endoscope systemdescribed herein.

Furthermore, in other embodiments, identification and authenticationlogic 1005 may be configured to exchange usage information stored indata logger 1020 with video monitor 106 via data cable 104. For example,data logger 1020 may be configured to record details regarding usage(e.g., power up) of the endoscope 102, such as date, time, and durationof endoscope 102. Identification and authentication logic 1005 may,during subsequent power ups, transmit this information to video monitor106 to for use in determining whether the endoscope 102 may be properlyused. For example, single-use endoscope 102 may only be authorized forpower-up a predetermined (e.g., <5) number of times, to ensure that thescope is not used outside of its intended purpose. For reusableendoscopes, the usage information stored in data logger 1020 may be usedto provide historical information, reconditioning recommendations, etc.In other embodiments, the information may be used to monitor a timebetween uses, to determine whether appropriate sterilization procedureshave been followed.

Version checking logic 1010 is configured to, in coordination withsimilar logic in data cable 104 and video monitor 106, determine whichcomponent has a most recently updated set of camera settings. Forexample, because components of medical devices may not be upgradable inthe field, providing an integrated upgrade path between the separatecomponents (e.g., separate components released at different times)provides an efficient manner for rolling out updated camera settingsusing only a single factory-updated component, without requiring adedicated field update process for all components within the system.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, upon power up of system100, version checking logic 1010 determines which of endoscope 102, datacable, 104, or video monitor 106 maintains the most recently updated setof camera settings in settings storage 1015. If endoscope 102 is not thedevice with the most recently updated set of camera settings, the devicehaving such settings may transmit the camera settings to endoscope 102or otherwise make the settings available to image capture logic 1030.

As described briefly above, in one embodiment, endoscope 102, datacable, 104, and video monitor 106 may be coupled via an I²C bus, whichrequires that only one device be in the “master” role at any one time.Generally, since the main control of system 100 is initiated by videomonitor 106, video monitor 106 is typically in the “master” role.However, consistent with embodiments described herein, upon system powerup, each of video monitor 106, data cable 104, and/or endoscope 102 mayalternatively assume the “master” role for the purposes of sharinginformation regarding its set of camera settings.

Light source logic 1025 is configured to cause light source module 316to become illuminated in accordance with settings stored in settingsstorage 1015 or received from video monitor 106.

Image capture logic 1030 is configured to capture images via cameramodule 314 based on the most recently updated set of camera settingsidentified and stored in settings storage 1015 and/or received fromvideo monitor 106. The captured images are then forwarded to imageoutput logic 1035 for relay to video monitor 106. More specifically,image capture logic 1030 is configured to receive image capture controlcommands from video monitor 106 via data cable 104. In response to animage capture command, image capture logic 1030 captures images based onimage capture settings stored in settings storage 1015. Depending onwhether endoscope 102 is single-use or reusable, image output logic 1035may be integrated within endoscope 102 or may include multiplecomponents included within endoscope 102 and data cable 104.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary functional block diagram of componentsimplemented in a data cable 104 in accordance with an embodimentdescribed herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 11 , all or some of thecomponents may be implemented by processing unit 920 executing softwareinstructions stored in memory.

As shown, data cable 104 may include identification and authenticationlogic 1105, version checking logic 1110, and settings storage 1115configured similarly to identification and authentication logic 1005,version checking logic 1010, and settings storage 1015 described abovewith respect to endoscope 102. For example, identification andauthentication logic 1105 may include logic for determining an identityof a connected endoscope 102 and determining whether the endoscope 102is suitable for use with data cable 104. In other embodiments,identification and authentication logic 1105 may be further configuredto identify and appropriate video path between endoscope 102 and videomonitor 106.

Version checking logic 1110 includes logic for determining which of datacable 104, video monitor 106, and/or endoscope 102 has the mostup-to-date set of camera settings corresponding to the identifiedendoscope 102. As described above in relation to version checking logic1010, version checking logic 1110 is similarly configured toalternatively transmit an indication of the version of the set of camerasettings stored in settings storage 1115 to each of video monitor 106and endoscope 102 and similarly receive corresponding information fromeach of video monitor 106 and endoscope 102. When it is determined thatthe version of the set of camera settings stored in settings storage1115 is the most up-to-date, version checking logic 1110 may provide thesettings to image capture logic 1030, which may then apply to cameramodule 316 and/or light source module 314 in endoscope 102.

Data cable 104 may further include image processing logic 1120 thatperforms some or all of the image processing on images captured bycamera module 314/316. In one embodiment, image processing logic 1120may include a serializer and/or related logic for preparing imagescaptured by camera module 314/316 for transmission to, compatibilitywith, and display by video monitor 106. In addition, image processinglogic 1120 may include logic for providing scaling and padding ormodification of other image attributes of captured images prior totransmission to video monitor 106.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary functional block diagram of componentsimplemented in a video monitor 106 in accordance with an embodimentdescribed herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 12 , all or some of thecomponents may be implemented by processing unit 920 executing softwareinstructions stored in memory 990.

As shown, video monitor 106 may include identification andauthentication logic 1205, version checking logic 1210, settings storage1215, control logic 1220, and display logic 1225. Identification andauthentication logic 1205, version checking logic 1210, and settingsstorage 1215 may be configured similarly to identification andauthentication logic 1005/1105, version checking logic 1010/1110, andsettings storage 1015/1115 described above with respect to endoscope 102and data cable 104. For example, identification and authentication logic1205 may include logic for determining an identity of a connectedendoscope 102 and determining whether the data cable 104 and endoscope102 is suitable for use with video monitor 106.

Version checking logic 1210 includes logic for determining which of datacable 104, video monitor 106, and/or endoscope 102 has the mostup-to-date set of camera settings corresponding to the identifiedendoscope 102. As described above in relation to version checking logic1010, version checking logic 1210 is similarly configured toalternatively transmit an indication of the version of the set of camerasettings stored in settings storage 1215 to each of data cable 106and/or endoscope 102 and similarly receiving corresponding informationfrom each of video monitor 106 and endoscope 102 before resuming the“master” role on bus 910 (e.g., the I²C bus). When it is determined thatthe version of the set of camera settings stored in settings storage1215 is the most up-to-date, version checking logic 1210 may provide thesettings to image capture logic 1030 in endoscope 102.

After version checking logic 1210 completes its check, control logic1220 receives user commands to commence image capture, such as viacontrol pad 124. Display logic 1225 receives the image data or videosignal from endoscope 102 via data cable 104. As described above, insome implementations, portions of the processing of the image data maybe performed by image processing logic 520 in data cable 104.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, the most up-to-date camerasettings stored in one of settings storage 1015, 1115, or 1215, mayinclude camera settings optimized for capturing the most useful imagesin an intra-airway environment. Such an environment typically exhibitsthe following characteristics: 1) extremely confined field of view,typically having no more than a 3″×3″ near circular cavity within whichto operate; 2) no primary ambient environmental lighting; all lightingrelies on a fixed single point background light emitted by light sourcemodule 314 provided immediately adjacent to camera module 316; 3)extreme red spectrum color bias; 4) frequent extreme swings in lightingbrightness caused by unpredictable intrusion of objects into camerafield of view when combined with the small usage environment; and 5)high contrast with both near-field and far-field points of interest.Unfortunately, conventional camera settings are not optimized for suchan environment and, consequently, images or video quality may suffer,and/or pertinent visual details may be lost.

As described above, camera module 316 comprises a CCD or CMOS device.Consistent with embodiments described herein, camera module 316 mayinclude configurable programming registers that allow the imagecapturing characteristics of camera module 316 to be optimized. Settingsstorage 1015, 1115, and/or 1215 in one or more of endoscope 102, datacable 104, and video monitor 106 may be programmed to include one ormore sets of customized camera module or image processing logic registervalues to optimize image and/or video quality in intra-airwayenvironments. For example, different sets of customized camera module orimage processing logic register values may be stored for differentidentified endoscope, such as different length tubes shafts, differenttip sizes, etc. etc.

Modern camera modules generally include automatic gain control (AGC)and/or automatic exposure control (AEC), which are designed to improveimage quality by automatically boosting the gain and increasing theexposure in low light images so that objects can be seen more clearlyand reduce the gain and decrease the exposure in bright images to avoidthe subject of the image from being washed out or blurry. Unfortunately,in intra-airway environments or other internal environments, occludingelements, such as the patient's tongue, or other organs or tissue, etc,may briefly block the camera view causing the AGC/AEC to reduce the gainand decrease the exposure time, thereby losing far field details, whichmay be necessary for accurate insertion of the endoscope or placement ofa corresponding ETT.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, camera module registers orsettings relating to the control of AGC and AEC may be optimized. Inparticular, a setting relating to an upper limit of an AGC/AEC stableoperating region may be modified. The upper limit of the AGC/AEC stableoperating region refers to how high or bright an incoming image or videosignal must become before the camera's gain algorithm mutes orattenuates the signal, by a preset amount, before sending the signal tovideo monitor 106. Accordingly, consistent with described embodiments,the upper limit of the AGC/AEC stable operating region may be raised(from its default) so that the “trigger point” of upper limit gainattenuation does not occur until the incoming signal significantlyincreases. The consequence is that any intruding near-field object, suchas a patient's tongue or a medical intubation tube, would need to eitherblock a larger portion of the field of view or remain in the field ofview much longer.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, a setting relating to thelower limit of the AGC/AEC stable operating region may also be modified.This setting controls how low or dim an incoming signal must achievebefore the camera's gain algorithm boosts the signal sent to host.Because a primary objective for intra-airway image capture is to ensurethat a patient's far-field vocal chords are visible most of the timeduring an intubation procedure, the value for the lower limit of theAGC/AEC stable operating region may be increased (from its default) toconsequently maintain the “window” in which attenuation is active to aminimum.

In some embodiments, one or more settings relate to or identify themaximum gain boost that can be applied when the incoming signal dropsbelow the AGC/AEC lower limit. As described above, since the AGC/AEClower limit is raised in accordance with the described embodiments, theeffect is that gain boost would be triggered at gain amounts higher thantraditionally applied. This may cause images to overexpose even atmoderate lighting levels, since the lower limit was now near or abovenormal lighting levels. To counter this, the automatic gain ceilingmaximum AGC value setting may be lowered (from its default) to limit themaximum boost that camera module 316 can apply. This helps manage theover exposure effect and bring it to an acceptable level.

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process 1300 forcapturing images via video endoscope system 100 described herein. In oneembodiment, process 1300 may begin when endoscope 102 is plugged intodata cable 104, data cable 104 is plugged into video monitor 106, andvideo monitor 106 is powered up (block 1302).

At block 1304, data cable 104 and/or video monitor 106 identifyendoscope 102 and determines whether it is authentic. For example, asdescribed above, identification and authentication logic 605 requestsand receives blade identification information from endoscope 102 anddetermines whether endoscope 102 is authentic and, potentially, that ithas not exceeded its authorized number of uses. If not (block 1304—NO),the process may end and a notification or alert is output via videomonitor 106 (block 1305). In other embodiments, unauthorized devices forwhich a video path can be determined may be permitted to transmit videoto video monitor, and, accordingly, in such embodiments, processing forunidentified or unauthorized devices may proceed to block 1312,described below.

However, if endoscope 102 is identified and determined to be authentic(block 1304—YES), two or more of the endoscope 102, data cable 104, andvideo monitor 106 negotiate to determine which device has the mostup-to-date camera settings relative to the identified endoscope 102(block 1306). For example, as described above, each component mayalternatively assume a “master” role on bus 910 to receive versioninformation from the other components, which are then compared to itscurrent version.

At block 1308, it is determined whether a device other than endoscope102 has the most up-to-date settings. If not (block 1308—NO), theprocess proceeds to block 1312. However, when one of the other devicesincludes the most up-to-date settings, (block 1308—YES), the settingsare forwarded to camera module 316 in endoscope 102 for use during imagecapture, which overrides any currently stored settings (block 1310).

At block 1312, image capture logic 1030 may capture images based on thesettings received or verified in step 1308/1310 above. Captured imagesare forwarded to video monitor 106 via data cable 104 (block 1314). Forexample, image output logic 1035 in endoscope 102 may output the imagedata captured by camera module 316 to data cable 104. As describedabove, in some implementations, some or all image processing on theimage data may be performed by image processing logic 1120 in data cable104.

Processed image or video data is received by video monitor 106 (block1318) and output via display 128 (block 1320).

The foregoing description of embodiments provides illustration but isnot intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the preciseform disclosed. In the preceding description, various embodiments havebeen described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However,various modifications and changes may be made thereto, and additionalembodiments may be implemented, without departing from the broader scopeof the invention as set forth in the claims that follow. The descriptionand drawings are accordingly to be regarded as illustrative rather thanrestrictive.

As set forth in this description and illustrated by the drawings,reference is made to “an exemplary embodiment,” “an embodiment,”“embodiments,” etc., which may include a particular feature, structureor characteristic in connection with an embodiment(s). However, the useof the phrase or term “an embodiment,” “embodiments,” etc., in variousplaces in the specification does not necessarily refer to allembodiments described, nor does it necessarily refer the sameembodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments necessarilymutually exclusive of other embodiment(s). The same applies to the term“implementation,” “implementations,” etc.

The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to be interpreted to includeone or more items. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to beinterpreted as “based, at least in part, on,” unless explicitly statedotherwise. The term “and/or” is intended to be interpreted to includeany and all combinations of one or more of the associated items.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example.” Anyembodiment or implementation described as “exemplary” is not necessarilyto be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments orimplementations.

Use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., in theclaims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote anypriority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another, thetemporal order in which acts of a method are performed, the temporalorder in which instructions executed by a device are performed, etc.,but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having acertain name from another element having a same name (but for use of theordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements.

No element, act, or instruction described in the present applicationshould be construed as critical or essential to the embodimentsdescribed herein unless explicitly described as such.

What is claimed is:
 1. An endoscope device, comprising: a handle; ashaft projecting from the handle, wherein the shaft includes a proximalend and a distal end relative to the handle; a flexible tip coupled tothe distal end of the shaft; and a pair of pull wires extending from thehandle through the shaft and coupled to the flexible tip, wherein thehandle comprises: first, second, and third control wheels, wherein thefirst control wheel is coupled to a first pull wire of the pair of pullwires, wherein the second control wheel is rotationally coupled betweenthe first and third control wheels and includes a control leverengagement portion, wherein the third control wheel is coupled to asecond pull wire of the pair of pull wires, wherein the first and thirdcontrol wheels each include annular grooves on a periphery thereof toreceive the first and second pull wires, wherein the second controlwheel includes an arcuate member that covers at least a portion of thefirst and third control wheels to prevent external contaminants fromentering the handle adjacent the control lever, wherein the arcuatemember is further configured to prevent the first and second pull wiresfrom coming out of the annular grooves on the periphery of the first andthird control wheels, wherein the first control wheel is concentricallypositioned relative to the second control wheel and the third controlwheel, wherein each of the first control wheel and the third controlwheel are capable of independent rotation to enable tensioning of thefirst and second pull wires during assembly of the endoscope device, andwherein, following tensioning of the first and second pull wires, thefirst, second, and third control wheels are rotationally coupledtogether, such that movement of the control lever causes the first,second, and third control wheels to rotate together, which then causesdeflection of the flexible tip via the pull wires.
 2. An endoscopedevice, comprising: a handle; a shaft projecting from the handle,wherein the shaft includes a proximal end and a distal end relative tothe handle; a flexible tip coupled to the distal end of the shaft; and apair of pull wires extending from the handle through the shaft andcoupled to the flexible tip, wherein the handle comprises: first,second, and third control wheels; and a cylindrical tensioning pin boss,wherein the first control wheel is coupled to a first pull wire of thepair of pull wires, wherein the second control wheel is rotationallycoupled between the first and third control wheels and is coupled to acontrol lever, wherein the third control wheel is coupled to a secondpull wire of the pair of pull wires; wherein the first control wheel isconcentrically positioned relative to the second control wheel and thethird control wheel, wherein each of the first control wheel and thethird control wheel are capable of independent rotation to enabletensioning of the first and second pull wires during assembly of theendoscope device, wherein, following tensioning of the first and secondpull wires, the first, second, and third control wheels are rotationallycoupled together, such that movement of the control lever causes thefirst, second, and third control wheels to rotate together, which thencauses deflection of the flexible tip via the pull wires, wherein thefirst control wheel comprises a serrated outer periphery, wherein thecylindrical tensioning pin boss is configured to receive a tensioningpin to engage the serrated outer periphery of the first control wheel,and wherein mating engagement of the serrated outer periphery of thefirst control wheel with the tensioning pin prevents free rotation ofthe first control wheel during assembly of the endoscope system.
 3. Theendoscope device of claim 1, wherein the handle further comprises a pairof routing posts for directing the pair of pull wires toward the firstand third control wheels.
 4. The endoscope device of claim 1, whereinthe first and second pull wires comprise Bowden-style cables, thatincludes an inner wire and an outer compression coil, wherein the handlefurther comprises a coil stop for engaging the outer compression coiland transferring the compression load during articulation to the handlevia the compression coil stop within the handle.
 5. The endoscope deviceof claim 1, further comprising: a working channel extending through theshaft, wherein the handle further comprises an access port assembly forallowing external access to the working channel.
 6. The endoscope deviceof claim 5, wherein the handle further comprises a suction valveassembly coupled to the access port assembly to enable selectiveapplication of negative pressure to the shaft via the working channel.7. The endoscope device of claim 1, further comprising: a tubeengagement device adjacent a proximal end of the shaft for retaining adevice tube over the shaft prior to use, wherein the tube engagementdevice is configured to frictionally engage an outside diameter of thedevice tube.
 8. The endoscope device of claim 2, wherein the handlefurther comprises a pair of routing posts for directing the pair of pullwires toward the first and third control wheels.
 9. The endoscope deviceof claim 2, wherein the first and second pull wires compriseBowden-style cables, that includes an inner wire and an outercompression coil, wherein the handle further comprises a coil stop forengaging the outer compression coil and transferring the compressionload during articulation to the handle via the compression coil stopwithin the handle.
 10. The endoscope device of claim 2, furthercomprising: a working channel extending through the shaft, wherein thehandle further comprises an access port assembly for allowing externalaccess to the working channel.
 11. The endoscope device of claim 10,wherein the handle further comprises a suction valve assembly coupled tothe access port assembly to enable selective application of negativepressure to the shaft via the working channel.
 12. The endoscope deviceof claim 2, further comprising: a tube engagement device adjacent aproximal end of the shaft for retaining a device tube over the shaftprior to use, wherein the tube engagement device is configured tofrictionally engage an outside diameter of the device tube.